An alternative approach used in a third semester French course at the University of Colorado at Denver is described. The approach was adopted to improve student motivation. The course focuses on the learning of practical French for everyday situations, while traveling abroad for business or pleasure. Emphasis is on conversational, communicative skills and polite language use. Students learn to compose a letter, send a fax, prepare a curriculum vitae, and write a successful cover letter. Grammar is systematically and progressively reviewed, especially structures essential to practical communication, and some key elements of syntax are reinforced. The cultural component addresses primarily issues related to conducting business in a French-speaking country. Culture is taught through lecture with question-and-answer period, introduction to francophone cultures other than France, and use of authentic print materials. Oral dialogues, weekly written compositions, oral presentations, and supplementary readings are also used. (MSE)

plus-circle Add Review

comment

Reviews